Reactions As Governor Okpebholo Joins Edo Residents To Protest Power Outages [Video]

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo joined residents on Monday to protest over frequent power outages and the billing practices of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

The protest began at Ring Road in the center of Benin City, with demonstrators carrying banners that read, “We say no to BEDC oppression,” “No light, no bill,” and “Edo people say no to bulk billing.”

The protesters expressed frustration over constant blackouts, estimated bills, and the high cost of prepaid meters.

Speaking for the group, Ogbidi Emmanuel said residents were forced to take action against unfair practices by the electricity company.

“We pay for light, and they give us darkness,” he said, questioning the transparency of BEDC’s free meter distribution program.

Emmanuel also called on the company to release the names of people who received free meters, which reportedly cost between N150,000 and N400,000.

Addressing the crowd, Governor Okpebholo urged calm and promised quick discussions with key stakeholders.

He emphasized the need to attract more investors to the electricity distribution sector to ensure more reliable power.

“We need to engage them to see how we can bring in more investors into the business of electricity distribution.

“Once that is done, we will all be more assured of stable power. Let us remain calm and allow the engagement to take place,” the governor appealed.

Okpebholo reminded residents that BEDC is privately owned and not directly controlled by the state government but assured that steps would be taken to address their concerns.

He announced a stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for Tuesday and invited the protesters to nominate five representatives to participate.

The governor explained that he joined the protest after noticing the gathering at Ring Road.

“I was just passing by and saw people gathered here at Ring Road. I stopped to find out what the issue was, and they said you were protesting.

“I said, yes, we are all youths, and I have come to join you. The only way we can fight this is to bring new investors into the business of distribution.

“We will break the monopoly. We want to operate like the telecom sector, where you have alternatives. Bringing in more investors will give our people options,” he said.

The protest remained peaceful, with security personnel present to maintain order.

After the governor’s remarks, the demonstrators dispersed.

At the time of filing this report, BEDC has not released an official statement in response to the complaints.

Videos and reactions below:

ALSO READ: Governor Okpebholo Orders Release Of AAU Students Arrested In Ekpoma Protest